"What Improv Taught Me About Creativity"

Two months ago, on a trip to Mexico, I reconnected with an old friend—one of the most creative people I know, a successful actor with whom I spent over six years doing improvisational theater. This encounter made me reflect on how much improv has shaped my life, and more importantly, my mindset.

Improv, in many ways, was the turning point in my career. It wasn’t just about being quick on my feet; it was about embracing the unknown, imagining new possibilities, and creating new worlds. Tapping into my creativity allowed me to start a business, connect with my passions, and live in a more purposeful way.

Now, as a father, I see how imaginative and boundless children’s creativity is. And I can’t help but wonder: What happens to us as we grow older? How do our systems turn our colorful, curious minds into stiff, gray ones? Unfortunately, we’ve been taught to stop imagining, stop exploring, and stop dreaming. But here’s the twist—the world is changing faster than ever, and creativity is a fundamental skill to succeed in the future.

So, how do you become more creative?

Creativity isn’t something you’ve lost; it’s something that’s been buried beneath years of rigid systems and “real world” expectations. The good news? You can absolutely regain it. Improv taught me invaluable lessons that apply not only on stage but also in life and business. Here are three simple practices from the world of improv to help you unlock your creative potential:

1. "Yes, and..." This is the golden rule of improv. Whatever idea or suggestion comes your way, don’t shut it down—accept it and build on it. In business, we’re often quick to say “no” or point out flaws in new ideas. But what if, instead, you said, “Yes, and…”? This principle fosters creativity by encouraging openness and collaboration. It pushes you to think expansively, adding layers to ideas instead of limiting them.

2. "Everything is an Offer" In improv, there are no mistakes—only opportunities. Whatever happens on stage, whether intentional or not, is an “offer” to take the scene in a new direction. The same applies to creativity in the workplace. Every challenge, setback, or unexpected twist is an “offer” to explore new solutions. Shifting your mindset to see everything as an offer turns potential problems into creative possibilities.

3. "Start Anywhere" We often wait for the “perfect” moment or the “right” idea to begin. Improv teaches us to start anywhere. You don’t need a fully-formed plan to be creative—just dive in, even if you’re unsure where it will lead. Creativity thrives on momentum, and sometimes the best ideas emerge when you simply start. Let go of perfectionism and give yourself the freedom to begin—anywhere.

The Future is Creative

I believe the future belongs to the creatives—the ones who aren’t afraid to think differently, challenge the status quo, and imagine new worlds. My invitation to you is to regain your creativity, to become curious again, to explore new possibilities, and to inspire others to do the same.